Use of Machine Learning to Determine the Information Value of a BMI Screening Program.

ABSTRACT:

Introduction

Childhood obesity continues to be a significant public health issue in the U.S. and is associated with short- and long-term adverse health outcomes. A number of states have implemented school-based BMI screening programs. However, these programs have been criticized for not being effective in improving students' BMI or reducing childhood obesity. One potential benefit, however, of screening programs is the identification of younger children at risk of obesity as they age.

Methods

This study used a unique panel data set from the BMI screening program for public school children in the state of Arkansas collected from 2003 to 2004 through the 2018-2019 academic years and analyzed in 2020. Machine learning algorithms were applied to understand the informational valu

SUBMITTER: Zare S 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC8610445 | biostudies-literature | 2021 Mar

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature